May 26, 2011
By Lars Perner
Q: It seems that I'll read one book about autism that says one thing, then read the exact opposite in another. About half of the things I read don't seem to apply to my son at all. About half seem to apply but, of course, not completely. Am I missing something?
A: There are large variations among people on the autism spectrum. Ironically, there may be larger variations among those on the spectrum than within the general population. This means that you will probably find some books that are very much “on target” and many more that seem very far off. Many books are written by—or about—specific individuals on the spectrum. In some of these books, you may be able to find some good “models” who match your son relatively well in many ways. Not only can these be helpful in dealing with problems that you are currently facing, they may also help you realize issues that you have not yet thought of and help you prepare for things that may come up in the future.
Q: My daughter’s teacher says that she doubts that Jenny’s “meltdowns” have anything to do with sensory overload. On some days, Jenny does well throughout the day. On other days, with no more noise or distractions, she acts out. I know that Jenny is trying hard to behave and she often comes home from school crying. What can I tell the teacher?
A: Persons on the autism spectrum often have “good” and “bad” days to a much greater extent than ordinary people do. On some days, it is going to take a lot less to trigger frustration than it will on others. Surprises and having to deal with changes can compound the exasperation of a bad day. It should also be noted that certain “sensory violations” may be much more evident to the person on the spectrum than to the detached observer; for example, other students nearby whispering to each other, a custodian handling noisy equipment in the hallway, a light flickering, or, on a rainy day, clothes giving off a vapor or making different sounds.
- Lars Perner, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Marshall
School of Business, University of Southern California; Chair, Autism
Society Panel of People on the Spectrum of Autism Advisors
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Submitted by: sue Date: July 28, 2012
I can't figure out why my 3 year old bits me so much, sometimes he's happy, sometimes he is mad, he is non-verbal. I just can't seem to figure out what triggers it. They are real bites too. I hope you can help me! Thank You very much. Sue Weatherman (diagnosed autism)
This is the first article I have come across on faculty training in a college or university. I am currently working on a project for my doctoral program at Walden University Online and the project is on college and university teacher training for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome in Texas. Is there any literature you can e-mail me on the training methods you use? If so, please send them to bafk2007@yahoo.com or barbara.kelley@waldenu.edu. Thanks. Barbara Kelley
This is the first article I have come across on faculty training in a college or university. I am currently working on a project for my doctoral program at Walden University Online and the project is on college and university teacher training for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome in Texas. Is there any literature you can e-mail me on the training methods you use? If so, please send them to bafk2007@yahoo.com or barbara.kelley@waldenu.edu. Thanks. Barbara Kelley
where do i go to get instructions for an adult sibling with aging parents and the siblings brother has autism aspergers in college but still doesn't know much about independence and the sibling will have to keep an eye out and help the sibling through life but probably not have supervisors helping out the sibling. the brother with autism aspergers does email rehab services but doesn't really do much else with rehab services. no job as yet for brother with austism aspergers, who is age 21.
where do i go online for step by step instructions for indipendent living as in using college money to get an apartment in the college town possibly with roommates that are college students but just a regular apartment, not with supervisors or other people with disabilities necessarily?
May the force be with you! Autistics are just like anyone when it comes to what will or what will not work. They are individuals. You may have to try different methods, therapies, diet changes, and redirection techniques. What may work for someone else may or may not apply to your child's needs. It is better to be over informed than not have more options if something does not work. It is best to seek out as many aids as you can. Parents know thier children so this blog will help people in need of options voice thier experiences.